Idea in Brief
The Problem
In job negotiations, professionals too often focus on pay and benefits and fail to think more broadly about how the opportunity will fit into their long-term career goals.
The Way to Start
Work backward from your career objectives to define the next steps you want to take. Be mindful of whether you’re proposing something standard, an unusual arrangement for yourself, or an idea that will change the organization.
The Negotiation
Make sure you have all the necessary information and aren’t operating under false assumptions. Explain why your request is also in the other party’s interest. Seek input and feedback from people who could be helpful, and enlist allies to support your proposal.
When we ask professionals to describe a career negotiation, the first thing many people think of is bargaining with a hiring manager over an offer package. That scenario may spring to mind because compensation negotiations can be especially stressful and awkward and therefore become seared into our memories.
